It is common for discussions to always arise at Atlético de Madrid, especially among fans, about the future of players who are not so prominent. Many of them do not quite find their place in the team or Simeone uses them in very specific moments and matches of the season. Obviously, it is inevitable that there will be some departures once the summer market opens, but they will be pieces that have had a residual role.
At the moment, there are 23 spots occupied out of the 25 possible in the first team, but no additions were made in the past winter market. Therefore, it seems difficult for signings to be made without other footballers leaving who would have already completed a cycle in the colchonero squad. There is one in particular that has caused some debate among the fans, but for whom Cholo has always had words of praise.
Sale Ruled Out at Atlético de Madrid
It is normal for an elite squad to have some footballers who do not have prominence and who are always on the exit ramp when it comes to movements. However, this is not the case for Conor Gallagher, who started as a starter in the last match played against FC Barcelona in Montjuïc. The Englishman has lost some prominence to a Samu Lino who has grown significantly in this year 2025 and is already approaching his version from the past season.
There are not few fans who have exclaimed to the heavens saying that the English international was doomed and would end up returning to the Premier League. However, Simeone has always praised him and explained that he is a player with characteristics for very specific scenarios. Precisely, he has always stood out more in the back-and-forth against physical and demanding opponents and in scenarios where the rojiblancos were going to suffer a lot on the field.
A Perfect Player for Simeone
It can be said that Conor Gallagher has virtues that resemble those of Marcos Llorente, especially in the physical aspect and power. He doesn't stand out for being the most skillful with the ball, but the former Chelsea player provides security to the midfield when he is on the field. The reality is that Simeonehas always used him close to one of the wings, although at times he has also placed him in the center.
He offers a lot of versatility to Atlético de Madrid and is capable of performing in almost any position, something that is very difficult to find in the transfer market. He has had the confidence of the coaching staff from day one and it would be surprising if he left the Metropolitano a year after his arrival. He is an essential figure to compete for all titles and has always demonstrated his commitment and work to adapt as quickly as possible.